Poker playing system featuring computer generated cards and chips

ABSTRACT

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system for playing a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players comprises: a Computer; a plurality of player consoles wherein the player consoles are distributed at the poker table in a manner to accommodate the players and wherein each player console comprises display means being responsive to the Computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means for allowing the Computer and the player consoles to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; the Computer comprising random card generating means for effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each player console display means; and the Computer sequentially responding to wagering information being sent by a particular player console and the Computer not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a poker playing system and in particular to such a system featuring electronic cards and electronic chips.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Poker has experienced an upsurge in popularity over the past several years. This upsurge in poker popularity has occurred mostly in legalized casinos in Nevada, California, Atlantic City, Mississippi, Europe and elsewhere. The poker game with the biggest upsurge in popularity has been limit Texas Hold-Em (hereinafter limit Holdem).

Poker is a game of skill, luck and psychology. Poker is best played and is most exciting when played by live players against each other using real cards at the same poker table. It is the handling of the money and the chips by the players and the poker dealer that slows down the poker game.

Many casinos do not offer poker. Casinos prefer to offer other casino games for the following reasons: Poker is too labor intensive; Poker rooms take up too much space; Poker makes too little money for the casino.

Many prior art card-playing systems disclose either new card games or modified traditional card games. Other prior art card-playing systems disclose the use of electronic cards and electronic chips controlled and/or generated by a central Computer. Other prior art card-playing systems allow numerous players to participate in the card game from remote locations. One prior art example is Sidley U.S. Pat. No. 4,760,527 entitled “System For Interactively Playing Poker With A Plurality Of Players” which discloses a Computer for allowing all players to simultaneously make one of a plurality of responses to a set of wagers of any plurality of players; and means to electronically assign one of more cards to the plurality of players. Another prior art example is Sidley U.S. Pat. No. 4,926,327 entitled “Computerized Gaming System” which discloses a similar system as aforementioned. Another prior art example is Troy U.S. Pat. No. 4,494,197 entitled “Automatic Lottery System” which discloses a lottery system free of player skill wherein the Computer pre-selects what particular play will be a winning play. A further prior art example is Hallman U.S. Pat. No. 5,159,549 entitled “Multiple Player Game Data Processing System With Wager Accounting” which discloses selecting means operatively associated with central data processing means and with each player station means for selectively designating one player station means as a banking entity responsive to entry of initial wealth data from each of the player station means and to wager data and added wealth data entered at applicable points in the game to account for changes in each player's wealth data as the game progresses. A further prior art example is Oliveras U.S. Pat. No. 6,626,757 entitled “Poker Playing System Using Real Cards And Electronic Chips” which discloses A system for allowing a plurality of players to play poker at a poker table, said system comprising: a central processing unit; a plurality of player consoles, said player consoles being distributed at such poker table in a manner to accommodate such players; and a plurality of first interconnecting means for connecting said central processing unit to each of said player consoles; wherein during a betting round of a poker hand said central processing unit responds to the wagering information being sent by a particular player console; and wherein during such betting round of such poker hand said central processing unit does not respond to any wagering information being sent by the other player consoles. None of the cited prior art patents disclose the “Poker Playing System Featuring Computer Generated Cards and Chips” of the present invention.

3. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system for allowing the playing of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players comprises: a Computer; a plurality of player consoles wherein the player consoles are distributed at the poker table in a manner to accommodate the players and wherein each player console comprises display means being responsive to the Computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means for allowing the Computer and the player consoles to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; the Computer comprising random card generating means for effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each player console display means; and the

Computer responding to the wagering information being sent by a particular player console and the Computer not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles during the poker hand.

Objects of the present invention are therefor to: Allow the poker dealer if any to be more efficient; Allow the poker dealer if any to manage more hands per unit time; Allow the casino to make more money per poker table and per unit time; Allow the poker manager to monitor the performance of the poker dealer if any; Allow the poker manager to monitor the number of hands per unit time managed by the poker dealer if any; Allow the poker manager to monitor casino rake (income) per poker table and per unit time; Allow the poker manager to remotely monitor the number of players per poker table; Allow the poker manager to better distribute the number of players per poker table; Allow the poker dealer if any to manage each poker hand without having to physically handle poker chips, without having to physically count poker chips, without having to physically distribute poker chips to the winning player, without having to physically handle money, and without having to deal and handle cards; Allow players to enter and leave a poker game without having to physically carry chips to and from the poker table; Allow players to enter and leave a poker game without having to physically purchase chips from the poker manager or from the poker dealer if any at the poker table; Allow the players to play a poker hand with displayed electronic cards and with displayed electronic poker chips; Allow only one poker player at a time to make a wager such as a check, fold, call, bet or raise and not allow the other players at the poker table to make a wager at the same time.

Advantages of the present invention are therefor that: It makes the poker dealer if any more efficient; It speeds up the poker game; It does not require the physical placement of poker chips at the middle of the poker table during a poker hand; It can be applied to all limits of Texas Holdem, Omaha and other poker games.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other objects, advantages and features of the present invention will be further appreciated from a reading of the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawing in which:

FIGS. 1-5 show top views of poker table 20 depicting how a limit Holdem poker hand is played.

FIG. 6 shows system 10 according to a multiple poker table embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows system 10 according to the present invention depicting a detailed view of main console 40 plus the layout of dealer or common console 60 and player consoles 70-79 at poker table T50.

FIG. 8 shows a detailed view of dealer or common console 60 according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows a detailed view of player console 70 according to the present invention.

FIGS. 10 a-18 a show various touch-responsive display screens of player console 70 depicting the wager actions or other actions at player console 70 according to the present invention.

FIGS. 10 b-18 b show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 depicting the wager actions or other actions at player console 70 according to the present invention.

FIGS. 19 a-19 c show the modular plug-in features of dealer or common console 60 and player console 70 onto poker table T50 according to the present invention.

FIGS. 20 a-20 b show the modular plug-in feature of main console 40 onto its base or support structure according to the present invention.

FIGS. 21 a-21 b show the informational display screens of main console 40 depicting the assignment of a new poker player and the termination of an already assigned poker player according to the present invention.

FIGS. 22 a-22 c show the display screens of player consoles PC 70-72 respectively indicating the button BU, the little blind LB, and the big blind BB designations at the beginning of a sample poker hand according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 shows system 10 according to another multiple poker table embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 shows system 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention depicting a detailed view of main console 40 plus the layout of dealer or common console 60 and player consoles 70-79 at poker table T50.

FIG. 25 shows a detailed view of table T50 while FIGS. 25 a-25 o show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 and player consoles 74-76 according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 shows a detailed view of table T50 while FIGS. 26 a-26 e show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 and player console 70 according to the present invention.

FIGS. 27 a-27 c show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 depicting displayed card images according to the present invention.

FIGS. 28 a-28 c show various display screens of player console 70 depicting displayed card images according to the present invention.

FIGS. 29 a-29 c show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 depicting displayed chip stack images according to the present invention.

FIGS. 30 a-30 c show various display screens of player console 70 depicting displayed chip stack images according to the present invention.

FIGS. 31 a-31 d show a detailed structure of player console 70 depicting various display screens according to the present invention.

FIGS. 32 a-32 c show various display screens of player console 70 depicting displayed card images at the end of the poker hand according to the present invention.

FIGS. 33 a-33 c show another detailed structure of player console 70 depicting various display screens according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Limit Holdem is played by up to 10 players on an oval-shaped poker table. The casino dealer sits in the middle of one of the long sides of the table. The betting limits are set by the casino. The most popular Holdem limits are: $5/$10; $10/$20; $15/$30; $20/$40; $30/$60; and $50/$100. The first $ amount is the “big blind” amount. In $10/$20 limit Holdem, the big blind is $10. The “little blind” amount is $5. During the 1st and 2nd betting rounds of a poker hand, the defined bet is $10 plus up to a possible 3 raises for a total maximum bet of $40. During the 3rd and 4th betting rounds, the defined bet is $20 plus up to a possible 3 raises for a total maximum bet of $80.

The following detailed description relates to $10/$20 limit Holdem. Each hand of limit Holdem involves several steps taken by the casino dealer and up to four betting rounds effected by the players. The order of dealing by the casino dealer and the order of betting by the players are controlled by the designated player position called the “button”. The player who is the button is designated by a round white plastic button which is physically placed in front of that player so that the casino dealer and all the other players know which player is the button.

In $10/$20 limit Holdem, each player initially buys poker chips for no less than the minimum amount set by the casino (such as $100) and up to $1,000 or more at the discretion of the player. Each player now has a stack of chips for playing each hand of poker. Before the beginning play (before the first hand is dealt and played), the casino dealer deals each player one card face-up in clockwise order starting with the first player to the left of the dealer. The player who is dealt the highest-ranking card face-up is designated the button. The plastic button is physically placed in front of that player who was dealt the highest ranking card face-up.

There are two ways by which the casino (“the house”) makes money from a poker game. In high limit Holdem, the casino usually charges each player at the table a monetary amount (“time”) during each ½ hour. For example, in $10/$20 limit Holdem, the time amount charged each player each 30 minutes may be $5. In low limit Holdem, the casino usually takes an amount (“the rake”) being a certain maximum percentage from each pot at the end of each completed poker hand. For example, in $5/$10 limit Holdem, the rake may be up to a maximum of $5.

The wager options or the wager actions that a player may choose from are fold, check, call, bet or raise.

Fold means that a player does not want to meet the pending bet or raise amount. Such player surrenders his two unique hole cards; and such player surrenders whatever moneys he has wagered so far up to that betting round of the poker hand.

Check means that a player does not want to bet when there is no pending bet or no pending raise amount.

Call means that a player puts into the pot the same amount as the pending bet or raise amount.

Bet means that a player bets the amount allowed during that betting round. Such bet amount may be the big blind amount or double the big blind amount depending on the betting round.

Raise means that a player bets an amount greater than the pending bet or pending raise amount. Such raise amount may be a multiple of the big blind amount or a multiple of double the big blind amount allowed during that betting round.

Side pots are created as follows. A player must either fold, check, call, bet, or raise. Such player has a certain number of chips in front of him at that time of play. If such player is not able to call the whole pending bet amount or pending raise amount; or if such player is not able to make a whole bet; or if such player is not able to make a whole raise, then the dealer creates a side pot in addition to the already existing main pot. The dealer determines the reduced amount that such player can call, bet or raise. Then the dealer places that amount into the main pot times the number of active players still in the hand at that time. For example, if the all-in player has only $5 and there are 4 active players in the hand, then the dealer places $20 into the main pot. The dealer then creates the side pot from the difference that the other 3 active players further call, bet or raise. The all-in player can only win the main pot. The other 3 active players can win the main pot and/or the side pot.

FIGS. 1-5 are top views of poker table 20 showing how a limit Holdem poker hand is played. See FIG. 1. Table 20 is shown as viewed from above. The positions of casino dealer D and of players 1-10 are shown. For explanatory purposes only, it is assumed that player 5 was dealt the highest-ranking card face-up and is therefor designated the button BU for the first hand. Therefore, round white plastic button BU is physically placed in front of player 5. Before any hand of limit Holdem is played, the most important questions asked by dealer D and by all the players at the table are: Which player is the button BU? Which player is the little blind LB? Which player is the big blind BB? In this example, player 5 is the dealer button BU. Player 6 is the little blind LB and places a $5 chip on the table in front of him before the first hand is dealt. Player 7 is the big blind BB and places a $10 chip on the table in front of him before the first hand is dealt.

Dealer D now knows that player 5 is the button. Dealing by dealer D and betting by players 1-10 are performed in a clock-wise manner relative to player 5 who is the button BU. Each hand of limit Holdem comprises up to four betting rounds. The 1st betting round is called the pre-flop betting round; the 2nd betting round is called the post-flop betting round; the 3rd betting round is called the turn betting round; and the 4th betting round is called the river betting round. Button BU remains in place throughout all betting rounds of a poker hand. Before the pre-flop betting round, player 6 (who is the little blind LB) must place a $5 chip in front of him. Player 7 (who is the big blind BB) must place a $10 chip in front of him. Players 6 and 7 have not yet been dealt any cards by dealer D. Dealer D now deals player 6 one hole card face-down; player 7 one hole card face-down; and so on until player 5 (the button BU) is dealt one hole card face-down. Dealer D next deals each player a second hole card face-down in the same clockwise order as before. Player 8 now has three options: he may call the big blind amount of $10; he may raise by the big blind amount and make the bet $20; or he may drop out of the hand and fold by surrendering his two cards to dealer D. After player 8 exercises one of his options, then it is up to player 9 to exercise one of his options, and so on until player 5 (the button BU) exercises one of his options. Player 6 (the little blind LB who has already placed a $5 chip in front of him) may now exercise one of the following options. He may complete his bet to $10 by placing a second $5 chip in front of him if no one before him has raised to $20 or higher. He may call a higher bet if there was at least one raise before him. He may drop out and fold by surrendering his two cards and his $5 chip. If player 6 still has an option to raise and in fact does raise, then all subsequent remaining players must either meet his raise or must fold their hands. Player 7 (the big blind BB who has already placed a $10 chip in front of him) may now exercise one of the following options. He may call if no one has raised before him by pushing his $10 chip forward. He may call a higher bet if there was at least one raise before him. He may drop out of the hand and fold by surrendering his two cards and his $10 chip if there was at least one raise before him. If player 7 still has an option to raise and in fact does raise, then all subsequent remaining players must either meet his raise or must fold their hands. The maximum number of raises allowed by the casino (usually three raises) limits the aforementioned clockwise process. Once the maximum number of raises is reached at a given player, then the subsequent remaining players may only call the prior raises or may fold their hands. The total amount or value of the chips in the middle of table 20 after this 1st or pre-flop betting round is called the pot. The monetary value of the pot is dynamic because it increases each time a player calls, bets or raises. Those players remaining in the hand after the pre-flop betting round are still active players. In this example, the remaining active players after the pre-flop betting round are players 6, 7, 9, 1, 3 and 4 in clockwise order relative to button BU. Players 8, 10, 2 and 5 folded (dropped out of the hand) and are inactive players during the rest of the hand. See FIG. 2.

After the 1st or pre-flop betting round is complete, dealer D burns a card B1 face-down and places it on the table to his left. Dealer D next deals three cards F1, F2 and F3 face-up and places them on the table in front of him. These three cards are called the flop cards. The remaining active players in the hand now commence the 2nd or post-flop betting round. During the post-flop betting round, player 6 may check by not betting or may bet $10. Player 7 may check if and only if player 6 checked, or may call $10 if player 6 bet $10, or may raise to $20 if player 6 bet $10, or may fold if player 6 bet $10. Player 9 may exercise one of the same options as player 7, and so on by players 1 and 3 until player 4 exercises one of his options. If player 4 still has an option to raise and in fact does raise, then players 6, 7, 9, 1 and 3 must meet the raise or must fold. Again, the maximum number of raises allowed by the casino limits the aforementioned clockwise process. Once the maximum number of raises is reached at a given remaining active player, then the subsequent remaining active players may only call or fold. The total amount or value of the chips in the middle of the table after this 2nd or post-flop betting round is the new pot amount. Those players remaining in the hand after the post-flop betting round are active players. In this example, the remaining active players after the post-flop betting round are players 6, 9, 1 and 3 in clockwise order relative to button BU. Players 7 and 4 folded (dropped out of the hand) and are inactive players during the rest of the hand. See FIG. 3.

After the 2nd or post-flop betting round is complete, dealer D burns another card B2 face-down and places it on the table next to burn card B1. Dealer D then deals another card TU face-up and places it on the table in line with flop cards F1, F2 and F3. The remaining active players (6, 9, 1, and 3) now commence the 3rd or turn betting round. During the turn betting round, player 6 may check by betting no amount or may bet $20. Player 9 may check if and only if player 6 checked, or may call $20 if player 6 bet $20, or may raise to $40 if player 6 bet $20, or may fold his hand if player 6 bet $20. Player 1 may exercise the same options as player 9, and so on until player 3 exercises one of his options. If player 3 raises, then players 6, 9, and 1 must either meet the raise or must fold. Again, the maximum number of raises allowed by the casino limits this clockwise process. Once the maximum number of raises is reached at a given player, then the subsequent remaining players may only call or fold. The total amount or value of the chips in the middle of the table after this 3rd or turn betting round is the new pot amount. Those players remaining in the hand after the turn betting round are active players. In this example, the remaining active players after the turn betting round are players 6, 1 and 3 in clockwise order relative to button BU. Player 9 folded (dropped out of the hand) and is an inactive player during the rest of the hand. See FIG. 4.

After the 3rd or turn betting round is complete, dealer D burns another card B3 face-down and places it on the table next to burn cards B1 and B2. Dealer D then deals another card R1 face-up and places it on the table in line with cards F1, F2, F3 and T. The remaining active players (6, 1, 3) in the hand now commence the 4th or river betting round. During the river betting round, player 6 may check by betting no amount or may bet $20. Player 1 may check if and only if player 6 checked, or may call $20 if player 6 bet $20, or may raise to $40 if player 6 bet $20, or may fold if player 6 bet $20. Player 3 may exercise one of the same options as player 1. If player 3 raises, then players 6 and 1 must either meet the raise or must fold their hands. Again, the maximum number of raises allowed by the casino limits the aforementioned clockwise process. Once the maximum number of raises is reached at a given remaining active player, then the subsequent remaining active players may only call or fold. The total amount or value of the chips in the middle of the table after this 4th or river betting round is the final pot amount. Those players remaining in the hand after the river betting round are active players. In this example, the remaining active players after the river betting round are players 6, 1 and 3 in clockwise order relative to button BU. See FIG. 5.

After the 4th or river betting round is complete, each remaining active player (6, 1, 3) in clockwise order relative to button B must expose his two cards face-up. Then, upon exposing his two cards face-up, each player must declare to the dealer and to the other players the best poker hand that his two cards make in combination with the five face-up cards F1, F2, F3, TU and R1 in the middle of the table. In most casinos, the dealer must read and declare out loud the best poker hand made by each player. In many cases a player will not expose his two cards because such player concedes to himself that his best poker hand does not beat the other exposed poker hands. After all the players' cards are exposed and after all the best poker hands are declared, then the dealer declares the winners of the main pot and any side pots. If two or more players make the same best poker hand, then the main pot and/or any side pots are split between/among such winning players.

FIG. 6 shows system 10 of the present invention in a multiple poker table embodiment. System 10 comprises main Computer 30; main console MC 40; poker tables T50-T59; and secondary self-powered Computer 80. Computer 30 further comprises random card generator 3010. Main console 40 may send signals to and may receive signals from Computer 30 via transmitting means 3040. Tables T50-T59 may send signal to and may receive signals from Computer 30 via respective transmitting means 3050-3059. Secondary Computer 80 may send signals to and may receive signals from Computer 30 via transmitting means 3080. Computer 30 may send signals to and may receive signals from main console MC 40, tables T50-T59, and secondary Computer 80 via such respective transmitting means. The aforementioned transmitting means may be wired or wireless.

FIG. 7 shows system 10 of the present invention including a detailed view of main console 40 plus the layouts of dealer or common console 60 and player consoles 70-79 at poker table T50. Main console MC 40 may send signals to and may receive signals from Computer 30 via transmitting means 3040. Dealer or common console DC 60 may send signals to and may receive signals from Computer 30 via transmitting means 3060. Player consoles PC 70-79 may send signals to and may receive signals from Computer 30 via transmitting means 3070-3079, respectively. Computer 30 further comprises random card generator 3010.

FIG. 7 also shows main console MC 40 comprising standard keyboard 41, special keyboard 42, display 43, printer 44, numerical keyboard 45, and card swiper 46. The components of standard keyboard 41, special keyboard 42, and numerical keyboard 45 may be electronically displayed on display 43 and may be operated as a touch-screen responsive system.

FIG. 8 shows a detailed view of dealer or common console DC 60 of the present invention. Dealer or common console DC 60 comprises special keyboard 61, display 62, printer 63, standard keyboard 64, numerical keyboard 65, and card swiper 66. The components of special keyboard 61, standard keyboard 64, and numerical keyboard 65 may be electronically displayed on display 62 and may be operated as a touch-screen responsive system.

FIG. 9 shows a detailed view of player console PC 70 of the present invention. Player console PC 70 comprises special keyboard 701, display 702, printer 703, numerical keyboard 704, and card swiper 705. The components of special keyboard 701 and numerical keyboard 704 may be electronically displayed on display 702 and may be operated as a touch-screen responsive system.

See FIG. 7 again. Special keyboard 42 of main console MC 40 includes button 421. When a new player wants to enter a poker game, the main console operator touches button 421. Then the operator enters the name of the new player onto standard keyboard 41 or enters the previously assigned casino ID number of the new player onto numerical keyboard 45. Then the operator touches enter button 411 on standard keyboard 41. In the alternative, the operator may swipe the previously issued casino plastic ID card of the new player onto card swiper or magnetic strip reader 46. The operator then touches enter button 411. Upon enter button 411 being touched, a signal is sent to Computer 30 for storage relating to the entered information. Computer 30 then sends a signal to display 43 to display the name and the assigned casino ID number of the new player.

Special keyboard 42 of main console MC 40 also includes buttons 422 further including button 422 a for limit Holdem, button 422 b for limit Stud, and button 422 c for limit Omaha. The new player tells the operator the specific poker game that he wants to play. The operator touches the specific button 422 relating to the desired poker game (in this example being limited Holdem) Then the operator touches enter button 411. Upon enter button 411 being touched, a signal is sent to Computer 30 for storage relating to the entered information. Computer 30 then sends a signal to display 43 to display the desired poker game (in this example being limit Holdem).

Special keyboard 42 of master console MC 40 also includes buttons 423 further including button 423 a for $5/$10limit; button 423 b for $10/$20; button 423 c for $15/$30; button 423 d for $20/$40; button 423 e for $30/$60; and button 423 f for $50/$100. The new player tells the operator the specific limit that he wants to play. The operator then touches the specific button 423 relating to the desired limit (in this example being $10/$20). The operator then touches enter button 411. Upon enter button 411 being touched, a signal is sent to Computer 30 for storage relating to the entered information. Computer 30 then sends a signal to display 43 to display the specific limit (in this example being $10/$20).

Special keyboard 42 of master console 40 also includes buttons 424 further including button 424 a for $50 initial buy-in amount; button 424 b for $100; button 424 c for $200; button 424 d for $300; button 424 e for $400; and button 424 f for $500. The new player tells the operator the specific initial buy-in amount that he wants to purchase. The operator then touches the specific button 425 relating to the desired initial buy-in amount (in this example being $500). In the alternative, the operator enters the specific initial buy-in amount onto numerical keyboard 45. Then the operator touches enter button 411. Upon enter button 411 being pressed, a signal is sent to Computer 30 for storage relating to the entered information. Computer 30 then sends a signal to display 43 to display the specific initial buy-in amount (in this example being $500).

Special keyboard 42 of main console MC 40 also includes button 425. The operator confirms that the cumulative information displayed on display 43 is correct being the name of the new player, the assigned casino ID number of the new player, the specific game desired, the specific monetary limit desired, and the specific buy-in amount desired. The operator then touches button 425. Upon enter button 425 being touched, a signal is sent to Computer 30 for storage confirming the entered information. Computer 30 then sends a signal to display means 43 to also display the number of the table and the number of the seat assigned to the new player in addition to the information already being displayed. Computer 30 also sends a signal to main printer 44 to print a 1st paper slip of the displayed information. Computer 30 also sends a signal to dealer or common console DC 60 at assigned table T50. Dealer printer 63 prints a 2nd paper slip of the same displayed information and dealer display 62 displays the same displayed information. The operator then gives the 1st printed paper slip to the new player who in turn presents it to the dealer at assigned poker table T50.

See FIG. 8. Special keyboard 61 of dealer or common console DC 60 includes ten buttons 6100-6109 for receiving signals from Computer 30 and for sending signals to Computer 30. Buttons 6100-6109 visually indicate by a 1st color (such as green) which of player consoles PC 70-79 is being assigned to the new player. Each of buttons 6100-6109 also receives signals from Computer 30 for visually indicating by a 2nd color (such as white) which of player consoles PC 70-79 were already assigned to the seated players. When the new player presents his 1st printed paper slip to the dealer, the dealer then compares it to his own 2nd printed paper slip to confirm that the new player came to the correct assigned table. Once the new player sits at assigned player console PC 70-79, then the dealer pushes appropriate button 6100-6109 to send a signal to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to appropriate button 6100-6109 to change its displayed color from green to white. Computer 30 also sends a signal to activate assigned player console PC 70-79 of the new player. The new player is now ready to play the next poker hand.

Special keyboard 61 of dealer or common console DC 60 also includes ten buttons 6110-6119 for sending a signal to Computer 30 relating to the player console positions of the button BU, the little blind LB, and the big blind LB for the next hand to be played. Computer 30 then sends a signal to those three buttons to visually indicate by a 3rd color (such as blue) that they represent the button BU, the little blind LB, and the big blind BB. Computer 30 also sends signals to the displays of the three player consoles PC 70-79 which are going to be the button B, the little blind LB, and the big blind BB to display the words “Button”, “Little Blind”, and “Big Blind”, respectively.

Special keyboard 61 of dealer or common console DC 60 also includes buttons 6120-6125 for sending a signal to Computer 30 relating to the winning player(s) of the main pot, the 1st side pot, if any, and up to the 5th side pot, if any. Computer 30 then sends a signal to each winning player's console PC 70-79 to display the new stored stack amounts of the winning players.

Special keyboard 61 of dealer or common console DC 60 also includes button 6130. When a seated player wants to terminate play and leave the game, the dealer touches the white-lit button 6100-6109 corresponding to that player's console. The dealer then touches button 6130 for sending a signal to Computer 30 indicating that such player wants to leave the game. Computer 30 then sends a signal to dealer printer 63 to print a 3rd paper slip with the name of the leaving player, the assigned casino ID number of the leaving player, the table number/player console number of the leaving player, and the final monetary value of the stored stack of the leaving player. Computer 30 also sends a signal to the player console of the terminating player to de-activate such player console. Computer 30 also sends a signal to the button 6100-6109 corresponding to the leaving player to turn off the white light at such button.

See FIG. 9 again. Special keyboard 701 of player console PC 70 includes a plurality of buttons 7010-7018 for allowing the player assigned to player console PC 70 to express his wager action during a specific poker hand or in between poker hands. Computer 30 sends a signal to player console PC 70 to enable buttons 7010-7018. If buttons 7010-7018 are not enabled, then the player sitting at player console PC 70 cannot act. At the same time, Computer 30 sends signals to all other player consoles at the table to dis-enable all other similar player console buttons. This way no other player at the table can act before the player at player console PC 70 acts. For explanatory purposes only, it is assumed that the player at player console PC 70 is the player who must act.

Button 7010 is the “check” button. When the player touches check button 7010, a signal is sent to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to player display 702 to display the word “check”. When the current player checks, it means that all prior players did not bet and that the current player also does not want to bet. It may also mean that the current player is the 1st player to bet after button BU and that such current player does not want to bet. The amount of the current player's stored stack amount/account remains the same and the amount of the main pot and all side pots remain the same. Computer 30 then sends a signal to the next player console to enable such next player console buttons and to dis-enable all other player consoles.

Button 7011 is the “call” button. When the player touches call button 7011, a signal is sent to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to player display 702 to display the word “call” and the amount of the call. When the current player calls, it means that at least one prior player made a bet or raise and that the current player wants to meet such pending bet or raise amount. Computer 30 deducts the call amount from the current player's stored stack amount. Computer 30 also sends a signal to dealer display 62 to display the new amount of the main pot and all side pots. Computer 30 then sends a signal to the next player console to enable such next player console buttons and to dis-enable all other player consoles.

Button 7012 is the “bet” button. When the player touches bet button 7012, a signal is sent to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to player display 702 to display the word “bet” and the amount of the bet. When the current player bets, it means that all prior players checked and that the current player wants to bet. It may also mean that the current player is the 1st player to act after button BU. Computer 30 deducts the bet amount from the current player's stored stack. Computer 30 also sends a signal to dealer display 62 to display the new amount of the main pot and all side pots. Computer 30 then sends a signal to the next player console to enable such next player console buttons and to dis-enable all other player consoles.

Button 7013 is the “raise” button. When the player touches raise button 7013, a signal is sent to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to player display 702 to display the word “raise” and the amount of the raise bet. When the current player raises, it means that at least one prior player made a bet. It may also mean that at least one prior player made a raise. Computer 30 deducts the raise amount from the current player's stored stack. Computer 30 also sends a signal to dealer display 62 to display the new amount of the main pot and all side pots. Computer 30 then sends a signal to the next player console to enable such next player console buttons and to dis-enable all other player consoles.

Button 7014 is the “fold” button. When the player touches fold button 7014, a signal is sent to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to player display 702 to display the word “fold”.

When the current player folds, it means that at least one prior player made a bet or a raise, and that the current player does not want to meet the bet or raise. Computer 30 maintains the player's stored stack amount intact. Computer 30 also sends a signal to dealer display 62 to display the same prior amounts of the main pot and all side pots. Computer 30 then sends a signal to the next player console to enable or activate such next player console buttons and to dis-enable or de-activate all other player consoles.

The betting information sent by player console PC 70 to Computer 30 relating to the action of the player by way of a check, fold, call, bet or raise is known as wager information or wager data.

Button 7015 is the “re-buy” button. When the player wants to purchase more chips, i.e. to credit the amount of his stored stack, the player touches re-buy button 7015, thereby sending a signal to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to dealer display 62 to display the player console number of the player that wants to re-buy chips and the word “re-buy”. Computer 30 also sends a signal to player display 702 to display the word “re-buy”. The dealer then asks the player for the amount of chips wanted. The dealer then enters the amount on numerical keyboard 65 and then touches enter button 65. A signal is sent to Computer 30 to cause main display 43 to display the table number, the player console number, and the amount of chips being bought by the player. A dealer's assistant then gets the cash from the player. The main console operator then touches enter button 411 on main console MC 40. Computer 30 then stores the credited stack amount of that player. Computer 30 also sends a signal to player display 702 to display the credited stack amount of that player. Computer 30 also sends a signal to dealer display 62 to clear the display of the completed transaction. Computer 30 also sends signals to main printer 44 and to dealer printer 63 to print the name, table number, player console number, and the re-buy amount on respective paper slips. The main console operator keeps the slip printed on main printer 44 and the dealer gives to the player the slip printed on dealer printer 63. A player may re-buy in between poker hands and during a current poker hand if such player is not in the current poker hand.

Button 7016 is the “terminate play” button. When the player wants to terminate play, the player touches terminate play button 7016, thereby sending a signal to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to dealer display 62 to display the player console number of the player that wants to terminate play and the words “terminate play”. Computer 30 also sends a signal to player display 702 to display the words “terminate play”. Computer 30 also sends a signal to main display 43 to display the table number, the player console number, and the words “terminate play”. Computer 30 also sends signals to main printer 44 and to dealer printer 63 to print the name, table number, player console number, and the final stored stack amount on respective paper slips. The dealer gives to the terminating player the slip printed on dealer printer 63. The main console operator keeps the paper slip printed on main printer 44. When the terminating player brings his printed paper slip to the main console operator, the operator initials the player's printed paper slip and the player can go to the cashier to cash out. The operator keeps his printed paper slip. A player may terminate play in between poker hands or during a current poker hand if such player is not an active player in the current poker hand.

Button 7017 is the “tip” button. When a winning player wants to tip the dealer, the player touches tip button 7017, thereby sending a signal to Computer 30. Computer 30 then sends a signal to dealer display 62 to display the cumulative dealer tips up to and including such player tip. Computer 30 also sends a signal to player display 702 to display the debited stored stack amount of that player. A player may tip the dealer in between poker hands, during a current poker hand if such player is not in the current poker hand, and at the end of a winning poker hand.

Button 7018 is the “negate” button. Whenever a player wants to negate the prior action taken by that player, i.e., by previously touching any of the aforementioned buttons, the player may touch negate button 7018 before the next player acts to send a signal to Computer 30. The player may then touch any of the buttons 7010-7017 as above-mentioned. If the next player has ready acted, then touching negate button 7018 will not negate the wager action of that player.

FIGS. 10 a-18 a show various touch-responsive screens of player display 702 allowing the respective wager actions or other actions by the player at player console 70 according to the present invention. In each case the player starts with $100 in his stored stack account. In FIG. 10 a the player checks. In FIG. 11 a the player calls the amount of $20. In FIG. 12 a the player bets the amount of $20. In FIG. 13 a the player raises the amount of $40. In FIG. 14 a the player folds. In FIG. 15 a the player re-buys the amount of $100. In FIG. 16 a the player terminates play. In FIG. 17 a the player tips the dealer the amount of $1. In FIG. 18 a the player first bets the amount of $20 but then changes his mind and immediately negates such wager action. All of the above wager actions or other actions are effected by the player touching player display 702 at the respective command word.

FIGS. 10 b-18 b show the various output screens of dealer display 62 relating to the respective wager actions or other actions by the player at player console 70 according to the present invention. In FIGS. 10 b-14 b the pot starts with amount of $150. In FIGS. 15 b-18 b the amounts stated relate only to the player at player console PC 70 and do not relate to the overall pot amount.

FIGS. 19 a-19 c show the modular plug-in feature of dealer DC console 60 and player PC console 70 in relation to poker table T50 according to the present invention. FIG. 19 a shows poker table T50, “=” shaped connector 600 for connecting to dealer or common console DC 60, and “+” shaped connectors 700-790 for respectively connecting to player consoles PC 70-79. FIG. 19 b shows the back side 601 of substantially flat dealer or common console 60 and “=” shaped connector 602 for connecting to “=” shaped connector 600 located on poker table T50. FIG. 19 c shows the back side 706 of substantially flat player console 70 and “+” shaped connector 707 for connecting to “+” shaped connector 700 on poker table T50.

FIGS. 20 a-20 b show the modular plug-in feature of main console MC 40 in relation to its support table, podium or other structure according to the present invention. FIG. 20 a shows the back side 404 of main console support 403 and “x” shaped connector 405 for connecting to main console MC 40. FIG. 20 b shows the back side 401 of substantially flat main console 40 and “x” shaped connector 402 for connecting to “x” shaped connector of main console support 403.

FIGS. 21 a-21 b show the output screens of main display 43 relating to the assignment of a new poker player and relating to the termination of an already assigned poker player according to the present invention. FIG. 21 a shows main display 43 of main console MC 40 displaying the name of the new player, the casino ID number of such player, the game to be played by such player, the game limit to be played by such player, the initial buy-in amount of such player, and the poker table/player console assignment of such player. FIG. 21 b shows main display 43 of main console MC 40 displaying the name of the terminating player, the casino ID number of such player, the game already played by such player, the game limit already played by such player, the final stored account amount of such player, and the poker table/player console where such player had been assigned.

FIGS. 22 a-22 c show the displays of player consoles PC 70-72 indicating the button BU, the little blind LB, and the big blind BB designations at the beginning of a sample poker hand according to the present invention. In FIG. 22 a the stored stack account in the original amount of $100 of the player at player console PC 70 is not deducted any amount because such player console is designated the button BU console. In FIG. 22 b the stored stack account in the original amount of $100 of the player at player console PC 71 is deducted the amount of $5 because such player console is designated the little blind LB console. In FIG. 22 c the stored stack account in the original amount of $100 of the player at player console PC 72 is deducted the amount of $10 because such player console is designated the big blind BB console.

FIG. 23 shows system 10 according to another multiple poker table embodiment of the present invention. System 10 comprises main Computer 30; main console MC 40; poker tables T50-T59; and secondary self-powered Computer 80. Computer 30 further comprises random card generator 3010. Main console 40 and Computer 30 may send signals to each other and may receive signals from each other via the combination of wireless transceiver 401 and wireless transceiver 301. Tables T50-T59 and Computer 30 may send signals to each other and may receive signals from each other via the combination of wireless transceivers 501-591 and wireless transceiver 301. Secondary Computer 80 and Computer 30 may send signals to each other and may receive signals from each other via the combination of wireless transceiver 801 and wireless transceiver 301.

FIG. 24 shows system 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention depicting a detailed view of main console 40 plus the layout of dealer or common console 60 and player consoles PC 70-79 at poker table T50. Computer 30 further comprises random card generator 3010. Main console 40 and Computer 30 may send signals to each other and may receive signals from each other via the combination of wireless transceiver 401 and wireless transceiver 301. Table T50 including dealer or common console DC 60 and player consoles PC 70-PC 79 and Computer 30 may send signals to each other and may receive signals from each other via the combination of wireless transceiver 501 and wireless transceiver 301. Main console MC 40 further comprises standard keyboard 41, special keyboard 42, display 43, printer 44, numerical keyboard 45, and card swiper 46. The components of standard keyboard 41, special keyboard 42, and numerical keyboard 45 may be electronically displayed on display 43 and may be operated as a touch-screen responsive system.

FIG. 25 shows a detailed view of table T50 while FIGS. 25 a-25 o show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 and player consoles 74-76 according to the present invention. Table T50 comprises dealer or common console 60, player consoles 70-71, and wireless transceiver 501. For illustrative purposes only, player console 74 is designated the button BU, player console 75 is designated the little blind LB, and player console 76 is designated the big blind BB.

The upper portion of FIGS. 25 a-25 e show display screens 62 of dealer or common console 60 while the lower portion of FIGS. 25 a-25 e show display screens 742 of player console 74 during the various betting rounds of the poker hand. Display screens 62 of dealer or common console 60 show that player console 74 is the button BU, the monetary calls made at player console 74, the common flop card numerical designations (ace of clubs “Ac”, ten of clubs “10 c”, three of clubs “3 c”), the common turn card numerical designation (five of spades “5 s”), and the common river card numerical designation (nine of spades “9 s”) . The display screens of player console 74 show that player console 74 is the button BU, the unique two unique hole card numerical designations (ace of spades “As”, king of clubs “Kc”) dealt to player console 74, the monetary calls made at player console 74, the common flop card numerical designations stated above, the common turn card numerical designation stated above, and the common river card numerical designation stated above. The unique two hold card numerical designations, the common flop cards numerical designations, the common turn card numerical designation, and the common river card numerical designation may also be displayed as graphic card image designations as will be disclosed hereinafter.

The upper portion of FIGS. 25 f-25 j show display screens 62 of dealer or common console 60 while the lower portion of FIGS. 25 f-25 j show display screens 752 of player console 75 during the various betting rounds of the poker hand. Display screens 62 of dealer or common console 60 show that player console 75 is the little blind LB, the monetary calls made at player console 75, the common flop card numerical designations (ace of clubs “Ac”, ten of clubs “10 c”, three of clubs “3 c”) , the common turn card numerical designation (five of spades “5 s”) , and the common river card numerical designation (nine of spades “9 s”) . The display screens of player console 75 show that player console 75 is the little blind LB, the unique two unique hole card numerical designations (two of spades “2 s”, three of clubs “3 c”) dealt to player console 75, the monetary calls made at player console 75, the common flop card numerical designations stated above, the common turn card numerical designation stated above, and the common river card numerical designation stated above. The unique two hold card numerical designations, the common flop cards numerical designations, the common turn card numerical designation, and the common river card numerical designation may also be displayed as graphic card image designations as will be hereinafter disclosed.

The upper portions of FIGS. 25 k-25 o show display screens 62 of dealer or common console 60 while the lower portions of FIGS. 25 k-25 o show display screens 762 of player console 76 during the various betting rounds of the poker hand. Display screens 62 of dealer or common console 60 show that player console 76 is the big blind BB, the monetary calls made at player console 76, the common flop card numerical designations (ace of clubs “Ac”, ten of clubs “10 c” , three of clubs “3 c”), the common turn card numerical designation (five of spades “5 s”), and the common river card numerical designation (nine of spades “9 s”) . The display screens of player console 76 show that player console 76 is the little big BB, the unique two unique hole card numerical designations (five of spades “5 s”, six of spades “6 s”) dealt to player console 76, the monetary calls made at player console 76, the common flop card numerical designations stated above, the common turn card numerical designation stated above, and the common river card numerical designation stated above. The unique two hold card numerical designations, the common flop cards numerical designations, the common turn card numerical designation, and the common river card numerical designation may also be displayed as graphic card image designations as will be hereinafter disclosed.

FIG. 26 shows a detailed view of table T50 while FIGS. 26 a-26 eshow various display screens of player console 74 according to the present invention. Table T50 comprises dealer or common console 60, player consoles 70-79, and wireless transceiver 501. For illustrative purposes only, player console 74 is designated the button BU, player console 75 is designated the little blind LB, and player console 76 is designated the big blind BB. In FIG. 26 a, display screen 742 of player console 74 displays that player console 74 is to be designated the button BU for the next poker hand. In FIG. 26 b, display screen 742 displays that player console 74 is the button BU; displays the two unique hole card images 900 dealt only to player console 74 (ace of spades “As”, king of clubs “Kc”); and displays that player console 74 has called the sum of $10 during the first betting round of the poker hand. In FIG. 26 c, display screen 742 displays that player console 74 is the button BU; displays the two unique hole card images 900 dealt only to player console 74 (ace of spades “As”, king of clubs “Kc”); displays the three common or community flop card images 952 dealt to all the player consoles (ace of clubs “Ac”, ten of clubs “10 c”, three of clubs “3 c”); and displays that player console 74 has called the sum of $10 during the second betting round of the poker hand. In FIG. 26 d, display screen 742 displays that player console 74 is the button BU; displays the two unique hole card images 900 dealt only to player console 74 (ace of spades “As”, king of clubs “Kc”); displays the combination 951 of the three common or community flop card images 952 plus the common turn card image dealt to all the player consoles (ace of clubs “Ac”, ten of clubs “10 c”, three of clubs “3 c”, plus the five of spades “5 s”); and displays that player console 74 has called the sum of $20 during the third betting round of the poker hand. In FIG. 26 e, display screen 742 displays that player console 74 is the button BU; displays the two unique hole card images 900 dealt only to player console 74 (ace of spades “As”, king of clubs “Kc”); displays the combination 950 of the three common or community flop card images 952, the turn card image, plus the river card image dealt to all the player consoles (ace of clubs “Ac”, ten of clubs “10 c”, three of clubs “3 c”, five of spades “5 s”, plus the nine of spades “9 s”), and displays that player console 74 has called the sum of $20 during the fourth betting round of the poker hand.

FIGS. 27 a-27 c show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 depicting displayed card images according to the present invention. FIG. 27 a shows dealer or common console 60 comprising proximal display 610, distal display 611, right lateral display 612, and left lateral display 613 wherein displays 610 and 611 show images of the three common or community flop cards, the common turn card, and the common river card. Proximal means closest to the dealer, distal means furthest to the dealer, right means to the right of the dealer, and left means to the left of the dealer.

FIG. 27 b shows dealer or common console 60 comprising proximal display 610, distal display 611, and left lateral display 613 wherein display 613 shows images of the three common or community flop cards, the common turn card, and the common river card. The bottom surface of console 60 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIG. 27 c shows dealer or common console 60 comprising proximal display 610, distal display 611, and right lateral display 612 wherein display 612 shows images of the three common or community flop cards, the common turn card, and common the river card. The bottom surface of console 60 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIGS. 28 a-28 c show various display screens of player console 70 depicting displayed card images according to the present invention. FIG. 28 a shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, right lateral display 713, and left lateral display 712 wherein displays 710 and 711 show images of the three common or community flop cards, the common turn card, and the common river card. Proximal means closest to the player, distal means furthest to the player, right means to the right of the player, and left means to the left of the player.

FIG. 28 b shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, and right lateral display 713 wherein display 713 shows images of the three common or community flop cards, the common turn card, and the common river card. The bottom surface of console 70 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIG. 28 c shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 610, distal display 611, and left lateral display 712 wherein display 712 shows images of the three common or community flop cards, the common turn card, and the common river card. The bottom surface of console 70 attaches to table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIGS. 29 a-29 c show various display screens of dealer or common console 60 depicting displayed chip stacks according to the present invention. FIG. 29 a shows dealer or common console 60 comprising proximal display 610, distal display 611, right lateral display 612, and left lateral display 613 wherein displays 610 and 611 show images of the chip stacks made up of chips of varying values and corresponding to the value of the pot at that time. Proximal means closest to the dealer, distal means furthest to the dealer, right means to the right of the dealer, and left means to the left of the dealer.

FIG. 29 b shows dealer or common console 60 comprising proximal display 610, distal display 611, and left lateral display 613 wherein display 613 shows an image of the chip stack made up of chips of varying values and corresponding to the value of the pot at that time. The bottom surface of console 60 attaches to table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIG. 29 c shows dealer or common console 60 comprising proximal display 610, distal display 611, and right lateral display 612 wherein display 612 shows an image of the chip stack made up of chips of varying values and corresponding to the value of the pot at that time. The bottom surface of console 60 attaches to table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIGS. 30 a-30 c show various display screens of player console 70 depicting displayed chip stacks according to the present invention. FIG. 30 a shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, right lateral display 713, and left lateral display 712 wherein displays 710 and 711 show images of the chip stacks made up of chips of varying values and corresponding to the value of the pot at that time. Proximal means closest to the player, distal means furthest to the player, right means to the right of the player, and left means to the left of the player.

FIG. 30 b shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, and right lateral display 713 wherein display 713 shows an image of the chip stack made up of chips of varying values and corresponding to the value of the pot at that time. The bottom surface of console 70 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIG. 30 c shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, and left lateral display 712 wherein display 712 shows an image of the chip stack made up of chips of varying values and corresponding to the value of the pot at that time. The bottom surface of console 70 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIGS. 31 a-31 d show the detailed structure of player console 70 depicting various display screen surfaces according to the present invention. FIG. 31 a shows player console 70 comprising proximal display screen surface 720, distal display screen surface 721, right lateral display screen surface 723, and left lateral display screen surface 722. Proximal means closest to the player, distal means furthest to the player, right means to the right of the player, and left means to the left of the player. FIG. 31 a shows player console 70 also comprising rotatable hood or cover 730. This view shows hood 730 further comprises left lateral surface 731 and upper surface 732. This view shows that hood 730 may be rotatably adjustable about horizontal laterally extending axes 740, 741 or 742. Hood 730 is rotatably adjustable to accommodate the player's desire and of course to hide the player's two unique hole card images from the other players. The bottom surface of console 70 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed. FIG. 31 a also shows acute angles 725 and 726 which may be designed or made smaller to lessen the height of player console 70 if desired.

FIG. 31 b shows player console 70 comprising proximal display screen surface 720, distal display screen surface 721, right lateral display screen surface 723, and left lateral display screen surface 722. This view also shows hood 730 further comprising upper surface 732, left lateral surface 731, and right lateral surface 733.

FIG. 31 c shows player console 70 comprising proximal display screen surface 720, left lateral display screen surface 722, and right lateral display screen surface 723. This view shows hood 730 further comprising upper surface 732, left lateral surface 731, and right lateral surface 733. The bottom surface of player console 70 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIG. 31 d shows an enlarged view of player console 70 comprising proximal display screen surface 720 displaying card images 900 being the player's two unique hole or hidden cards plus the common board card images 950 being the flop cards, the turn card, and the river card.

FIGS. 32 a-32 c show various display screens of player console 70 depicting displayed card images at the end of the poker hand according to the present invention. FIG. 32 a shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, right lateral display 713, and left lateral display 712. Proximal display 710 and distal display 711 each show images of the two unique hole cards; the three common or community flop cards; the common turn card; the common river card; and the winning player designation. Proximal means closest to the player, distal means furthest to the player, right means to the right of the player, and left means to the left of the player.

FIG. 32 b shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, and right lateral display 713. Right lateral display 713 shows images of the two unique hole cards; the three common or community flop cards; the common turn card; and the common river card; and the winning player designation. The bottom surface of player console 70 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIG. 32 c shows player console 70 comprising proximal display 710, distal display 711, and left lateral display 712. Left lateral display 712 shows images of the two unique hole cards; the three common or community flop cards; the common turn card; the common river card; and the winning player designation. The bottom surface of player console 70 attaches onto table T50 as hereinbefore disclosed.

FIGS. 33 a-33 d show the detailed structure of player console 70 depicting various display screen surfaces according to the present invention. FIG. 33 a is a left side view showing player console 70 comprising proximal display screen surface 720, distal display screen surface 721, left lateral display screen surface 722 and hood or cover 730. Proximal means closest to the player, distal means furthest to the player, right means to the right of the player, and left means to the left of the player. Hood 730 further comprises left lateral surface 731 and upper surface 732. Hood or cover 730 may be rotatably adjustable about horizontal laterally extending axis 741. In this Figure hood or cover 730 is rotatably adjusted downward to hide the player's two unique hole card images from the other players. Bottom surface 724 attaches onto or below the upper surface of table T50. Also shown are acute angles 725 and 726 which may be designed or made smaller to lessen the height of player console 70 if desired. Also shown are the images of common or community cards 950 being displayed by display surface 722. FIG. 33 c is a corresponding front view showing hood or cover 730, hood surface 732, proximal display screen surface 720, and the images of common or community cards 950 being displayed by display screen surface 720.

FIG. 33 b shows player console 70 comprising proximal display screen surface 720, distal display screen surface 721, left lateral display screen surface 722 and display cover 730. Player console 70 also comprises rotatable hood or cover 730. Hood 730 further comprises left lateral surface 731 and upper surface 732. Hood 730 may be rotatably adjustable about horizontal laterally extending axis 741. In this Figure hood 730 is rotatably adjusted upward to discretely show the player's two unique hole card images only to the player and not the other players. Bottom surface 724 attaches onto or below the upper surface of table T50. Also shown are acute angles 725 and 726 which may be designed or made smaller to lessen the height of player console 70 if desired. Also shown are the images of common or community cards 950 being displayed by display surface 722. FIG. 33 d is the corresponding front view showing hood or cover 730 in the up position, proximal display screen surface 720, the images of common or community cards 950 being displayed by display screen surface 720, and the images of unique hole card images 900 also being displayed by display screen surface 720.

Table 1 below shows the 52 cards comprising the standard poker deck. The standard poker deck includes 13 clubs “c”, 13 diamonds “d”, 13 hearts “h”, and 13 spades “s”. In a holdem poker game according to the present invention, computer 30 first deals onto each player console display two unique hidden or hole cards. This is followed by the first betting round. Then computer 30 deals the three common flop cards. This is followed by the second betting round. Then computer 30 deals the common turn card. This is followed by the third betting round. Then computer 30 deals the common river card. This is followed by the fourth betting round. In omaha poker games the computer deals each player four unique hidden or hole cards. This is followed by the first betting round. Then the computer deals the three common or flop cards. This is followed by the second betting round. Then the computer deals the common turn card. This is followed by the third betting round. Then the computer deals the common river card. This is followed by the fourth betting round. Then the computer determines the winning player and designates the winning player on the winning player's player console display means.

According to the present invention, system 10 allows for the playing of at least one betting round of a poker hand at poker table T50 by a plurality of players. System 10 comprises main Computer 30; player consoles PC 70-PC 79. Player consoles PC 70-PC 79 are distributed at poker table T50 in a manner to accommodate the players. Also player consoles PC 70-PC 79 respectively comprise display means 702-792 which respond to and are controlled by Computer 30. System 10 also comprises transmitting means 3070-3079 for allowing Computer 30 and player consoles PC 70-PC 79 to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other. Computer 30 comprises random card generating means 301 for effecting display of randomly generated card images on player console display means 702-792.

During the first betting round of the poker hand, Computer random card generating means 301 effects display of an equal number of unique hole card images on each player console display means 702-792. Such unique hole card images are respectively displayed only on the proximal display surface of each player console PC 70-PC 79. In the game of holdem the number of unique hole cards is two. In the game of omaha the number of unique hole cards is four.

During a particular time interval of the first betting round of the poker hand, Computer 30 responds to wagering information being sent by a particular player console. Computer 30 does not respond to any wagering information being sent by the other player consoles during that particular time interval. Such betting process during the first betting round is sequentially repeated for each player console. The poker hand may be completed at the end of the first betting round if any one player makes a raise that is not met by any other player. In FIG. 25, sequential means that player console 77 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 78-76 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 78 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 79-77 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 79 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 79-78 may not send any wager information to computer 30. This clockwise sequential process is continued until player console 76 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 77-75 may not send any wager information to computer 30.

After the first betting round and before the second betting round if played, Computer random card generating means 301 effects display of an equal number of common card images on each player console display means 702-792. Such common card images are displayed on all display surfaces of each player console PC 70-PC 79. In the games of holdem and omaha the number of common hole cards is three.

During a particular time interval of the second betting round, Computer 30 responds to wagering information being sent by a particular player console. Computer 30 does not respond to any wagering information being sent by the other player consoles during that particular time interval. Such betting process during the second betting round is repeated for each player console. The poker hand may be completed at the end of the second betting round if any one player makes a bet or raise that is not met by any other player. In FIG. 25, sequential means that player console 75 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 76-74 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 76 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 77-75 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 77 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 78-76 may not send any wager information to computer 30. This clockwise sequential process is continued until player console 74 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 75-73 may not send any wager information to computer 30.

After the second betting round if played and before the third betting round if played, Computer random card generating means 301 effects display of one more common card image on each player console display means 702-792. Such common card image is displayed on all display surfaces of each player console PC 70-PC 79.

During a particular time interval of the third betting round, Computer 30 responds to wagering information being sent by a particular player console. Computer 30 does not respond to any wagering information being sent by the other player consoles during that particular time interval. Such betting process during the third betting round is repeated for each player console. The poker hand may be completed at the end of the third betting round if any one player makes a bet or raise that is not met by any other player. In FIG. 25, sequential means that player console 75 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 76-74 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 76 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 77-75 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 77 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 78-76 may not send any wager information to computer 30. This clockwise sequential process is continued until player console 74 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 75-73 may not send any wager information to computer 30.

After the third betting round if played and before the fourth betting round if played, Computer random card generating means 301 effects display of one more common card image on each player console display means 702-792. Such common card image is displayed on all display surfaces of each player console PC 70-PC 79.

During a particular time interval of the fourth betting round, Computer 30 responds to wagering information being sent by a particular player console. Computer 30 does not respond to any wagering information being sent by the other player consoles during that particular time interval. Such betting process during the fourth betting round is repeated for each player console. The poker hand may be completed at the end of the fourth betting round if any one player makes a bet or raise that is not met by any other player. In FIG. 25, sequential means that player console 75 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 76-74 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 76 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 77-75 may not send any wager information to computer 30. Next, player console 77 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 78-76 may not send any wager information to computer 30. This clockwise sequential process is continued until player console 74 may send wager information to computer 30 while the other player consoles 75-73 may not send any wager information to computer 30.

At the end of the fourth betting round if played, Computer 30 effects display of the two unique hole card images plus the five common card images on the display surfaces of the respective player console display means for each two unique hole cards. Computer 30 then determines which player has the winning poker hand. Computer 30 then effects display of the winner designation on the display surfaces of the winning player's player console display means.

According to the present invention the main Computer comprises in part a random card generator. The random card generated may be displayed as a numerical equivalent image of such card such as the image “Ac” being the ace of clubs. See FIG. 25. The random card generated may also be displayed as a graphical image of such card such as the graphical image of the ace of clubs. See FIG. 31. TABLE 1 Suit Club/C Diamond/D Heart/H Spade/S Value 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 Jack Jack Jack Jack Queen Queen Queen Queen King King King King Ace Ace Ace Ace

In a holdem poker game, Computer 30 comprises a random card generator for first randomly generating a plurality of unique two-card combinations chosen from the data base of cards shown in Table 1 above. The number of generated two-card combinations is equal to the number of activated player consoles at the poker table. Computer 30 then causes each activated player console to display one unique two-card combination being the two unique hole-cards in effect dealt to and played by the respective player. This is followed by the first betting round of the poker hand. The random card generator then randomly generates a common three-card combination chosen from the data base of remaining cards shown in Table 1 above. This is called the flop cards and is used in common by all the players common to make a poker hand. Computer 30 then causes each activated player console and the dealer or common console to display the image of such three-card combination. This is followed by the second betting round of the poker hand. The random card generator then randomly generates one card chosen from the data base of remaining cards shown in Table 1 above. This is called the turn card and is used in common by all the players in combination with the flop cards and the respective two unique hole cards to make a poker hand. Computer 30 then causes each player console and the dealer or common console to display the image of such turn card. This is followed by the third betting round of the poker hand. The random card generator then randomly generates one card chosen from the data base of remaining cards shown in Table 1 above. This is called the river card and is used in common by all the players in combination with the flop cards, the turn card, and the unique two-hole cards to make a poker hand. Computer 30 then causes each player console and the dealer or common console to display the image of such river card. This is followed by the fourth betting round of the poker hand. See FIGS. 27 and 28.

According to the present invention, Computer 30 comprises means for storing an algorithm for determining the winning poker hand. Such algorithm compares the combinations of five cards comprising the two unique hole cards plus the five common cards whose images are displayed on the player console display means during the progress of the poker hand as explained above. After determining the winning hand, Computer 30 then effects display of the winning designation upon the player console display means of the winning player. Computer 30 also credits the value of the pot to the stored account of the winning player.

Five card poker hands as ranked are shown in Table 2 below. TABLE 2 Five Card Poker Hand Rankings High card only: A s 10 c 9 s 3 d 2 h One pair: A s 10 c 10 d 9 s 3 d Two pair: A s 10 c 10 d 9 s 9 c Three of a kind: A s 10 c 10 d 10 h 9 s Full house: A s A c 10 c 10 d 10 h Four of a kind: A s 10 s 10 c 10 d 10 h Straight Flush:  8 c 9 c 10 c J c Q c Royal Flush: 10 c J c Q c K c A c

While the present invention has been described in terms of specific illustrative embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other embodiments and modifications are possible within the spirit and scope of the disclosed principle. 

1. A system being capable of allowing the playing of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of player consoles; said player consoles being distributed at such poker table in a manner to accommodate the players; and each player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each player console display means; and said computer being capable of sequentially responding to wagering information being sent by each player console while not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles during such poker hand.
 2. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; and a second display surface being visible to other players.
 3. In the system of claim 2: said computer being capable of causing display of unique hole-card images on the second display surface at each respective player console display means at the end of the poker hand; said computer determining the winning player at the end of the poker hand; said computer designating such winning player on the second display surface at his respective player console display means at the end of the poker hand; and said computer crediting the amount of the pot to the stored account of such winning player at the end of the poker hand.
 4. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; and a second display surface being visible to other players; each first display surface being capable of displaying its unique hole-cards and the common cards of the poker hand; and each second display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 5. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; and a second display surface being visible to other players; each first display surface and each second display surface being capable of displaying a graphical image of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the amount bet at its respective player console.
 6. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to others players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players.
 7. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; each first display surface being capable of displaying its unique hole-cards and the common cards of the poker hand; and each second display surface, each third display surface, and each fourth display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 8. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; each first display surface, each second display surface, each third display surface, and each fourth display surface being capable of displaying a graphical image of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the amount bet at its respective player console.
 9. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; and a second display surface being visible to other players; each player console having a triangular cross-section.
 10. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; and a second display surface being visible to other players; each player console having a triangular cross-section; each first display surface being capable of displaying its unique hole-cards and the common cards of the poker hand; and each second display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 11. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; and a second display surface being visible to other players; each player console having a triangular cross-section; each first display surface and each second display surface being capable of displaying a graphical image of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the amount bet at its respective player console.
 12. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; each player console having a triangular cross-section.
 13. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; each player console having a triangular cross-section; each first display surface being capable of displaying its unique hole-cards and the common cards of the poker hand; and each second display surface, each third display surface, and each fourth display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 14. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; each player console having a triangular cross-section; each first display surface, each second display surface, each third display surface, and each fourth display surface being capable of displaying a graphical image of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the amount bet at its respective player console.
 15. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being visible to other players; and rotatable cover means for making said first display surface visible only to such player.
 16. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being visible to other players; and rotatable cover means for making said first display surface visible only to such player; each first display surface being capable of displaying its unique hole-cards and the common cards of the poker hand; and each second display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 17. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being visible to other players; and rotatable cover means for making said first display surface visible only to such player; each first display surface and each second display surface being capable of displaying a graphical image of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the amount bet at its respective player console.
 18. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and rotatable cover means for making said first display surface visible only to such player.
 19. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and rotatable cover means for making said first display surface visible only to such player; each first display surface being capable of displaying its unique hole-cards and the common cards of the poker hand; and each second display surface, each third display surface, and each fourth display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 20. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means comprising: a first display surface being proximal to its player and being visible to such player; a second display surface being distal to such player and being visible to other players; a third display surface being right lateral to such player and being visible to other players; a fourth display surface being left lateral to such player and being visible to other players; and rotatable cover means for making said first display surface visible only to such player; each first display surface, each second display surface, each third display surface, and each fourth display surface being capable of displaying a graphical image of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the amount bet at its respective player console.
 21. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means being capable of displaying numerical equivalent images of cards being randomly generated by said computer random card generating means.
 22. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means being capable of displaying graphical images of cards being randomly generated by said computer random card generating means.
 23. In the system of claim 1, said first transmitting means being wireless means.
 24. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means being capable of displaying wager action be it check, fold, call, bet or raise.
 25. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means being capable of displaying the amount of money remaining in its player's computer stored account.
 26. In the system of claim 1, each player console comprising tipping means being capable of allowing its winning player to tip the dealer, if any.
 27. In the system of claim 1, each player console comprising crediting means being capable of allowing its player to credit his computer stored player account.
 28. In the system of claim 1, each player console comprising terminating means being capable of allowing its player to terminate play at his player console.
 29. In the system of claim 1, each player console display means being capable of designating the button player console, the little blind player console, and the big blind player console at the beginning of the poker hand.
 30. In the system of claim 1, said computer being capable of computing and storing the rake amount earned by the casino at the end of the poker hand and deducting such rake amount from the final value of the pot at the end of the poker hand.
 31. In the system of claim 1, said computer being capable of computing and storing the cumulative value of all tips given to the dealer, if any, up to the end of each poker hand.
 32. In the system of claim 1, said computer being capable of computing and storing the cumulative value of all rake amounts earned by the casino up to the end of each poker hand.
 33. In the system of claim 1: each player console comprising swiping means for allowing the accessing of information relating to a player; and said computer being capable of storing such player information, such player log-in time, and such player log-out time.
 34. In the system of claim 1, at the beginning of the poker hand, said computer designating a particular player console to be the big blind player console; said computer being capable of enabling the player console following said big blind player console; and said computer dis-enabling every other player console.
 35. The system of claim 1 also comprising a secondary computer being capable of responding to said computer for continually storing: the value of each player's stored account; the cumulative value of all tips given to the dealer, if any; the cumulative value of all rake amounts earned by the casino; the card designations displayed on each player console display screen; and the wager information sent to said computer by each player console during each poker hand.
 36. In the system of claim 1, each player console comprising touch-responsive display means being capable of allowing the sending of wager information to said computer.
 37. In the system of claim 1, said computer being capable of tabulating and storing the number of poker hands played per unit time.
 38. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means being capable of displaying the value of the pot during the poker hand.
 39. In the system of claim 38, said second transmitting means being wireless means.
 40. In the system of claim 38, said common console comprising means being capable of activating each assigned player console at the beginning of play by the assigned player at such assigned player console.
 41. In the system of claim 38, said common console comprising printing means being capable of printing information relating to each player and the final amount of each player's computer stored account upon termination of play by each player.
 42. In the system of claim 38: each player console comprising display means being capable of visually designating its position as the button player console, the little blind player console, or the big blind player console at the beginning of the poker hand; and said common console comprising means being capable of activating said designated button player console display, said designated little blind player console display, and said designated big blind player console display at the beginning of the poker hand.
 43. In the system of claim 38: said common console comprising swiping means being capable of accessing information relating to each player; and said computer being capable of storing such player information, such player log-in time, and such player log-out time.
 44. The system of claim 38 comprising: a main console; and third transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said main console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said main console comprising activating means being capable of activating said common console at the beginning of play.
 45. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table and being visible to the dealer, if any; and a second display surface being proximal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players.
 46. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table and being visible to the dealer, if any; and a second display surface being proximal to the center of the poker table and being visible to players; said first display surface and said second display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 47. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; and a second display surface being proximal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; said first display surface and said second display surface being capable of displaying a graphical image of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the value of the pot during the poker hand.
 48. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; a second display surface being proximal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; a third display surface being right lateral to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to the dealer and being visible to players.
 49. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table dealer and being visible to players; a second display surface being proximal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; a third display surface being right lateral to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; said first display surface, said second display surface, said third display surface, and said fourth display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 50. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table dealer and being visible to players; a second display surface being proximal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; a third display surface being right lateral to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; and a fourth display surface being left lateral to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; said first display surface, said second display surface, said third display surface, and said fourth display surface being capable of displaying graphical images of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the value of the pot during the poker hand.
 51. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table dealer and being visible to players; a second display surface being proximal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; said common console having a triangular cross-section.
 52. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table dealer and being visible to players; a second display surface being proximal distal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; said common console having a triangular cross-section; said first display surface and said second display surface being capable of displaying the common cards of the poker hand.
 53. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means comprising: a first display surface being distal to the center of such poker table dealer and being visible to players; a second display surface being proximal distal to the center of such poker table and being visible to players; said common console having a triangular cross-section; said first display surface and said second display surface being capable of displaying graphical images of a stack of chips being numerically equivalent to the value of the pot during the poker hand.
 54. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means being capable of displaying numerical equivalent images of the common cards being randomly generated by said computer random card generating means.
 55. The system of claim 1 comprising: a common console at such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said common console comprising display means; said display means being capable of displaying graphical images of the common cards being randomly generated by said computer random card generating means.
 56. The system of claim 1 comprising: a modular common console being removably attached to such poker table; and second transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said modular common console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said modular common console comprising display means being capable of displaying the value of the pot during the poker hand.
 57. The system of claim 1 comprising: a main console; and third transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said main console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said main console comprising display means being capable of displaying information relating to each player, the buy-in amount of each player, and the assigned player console of each player.
 58. In the system of claim 1: said main console comprising swiping means being capable of accessing information relating to each player; and said computer being capable of storing such player information, such player log-in time, and such player log-out time.
 59. In the system of claim 1: said main console comprising swiping means being capable of accessing information relating to each player; and said computer being capable of storing such player information.
 60. In the system of claim 57, said third transmitting means being wireless means.
 61. The system of claim 1 comprising: a modular main console and a base for same wherein said modular main console is removably attached to said base; and third transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said modular main console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said modular main console comprising display means being capable of displaying information relating to each player, the buy-in amount of each player, and the assigned player console of each player.
 62. The system of claim 1 comprising: a main console; and third transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said main console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said main console comprising printing means being capable of printing information relating to each player, the buy-in amount of each player, and the assigned player console of each player.
 63. The system of claim 1 comprising: a main console; and third transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said main console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said main console comprising display means being capable of displaying the cumulative value of all tips given to the dealer, if any, and the cumulative value of all rake amounts earned by the casino.
 64. The system of claim 1 comprising: a main console; and third transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and said main console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said main console comprising printing means being capable of printing the cumulative value of all tips given to the dealer, if any, and the cumulative value of all rake amounts earned by the casino.
 65. A system being capable of allowing the playing of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of player consoles; said player consoles being distributed at such poker table in a manner to accommodate the players; and each player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each player console display means; said computer being capable of sending signals to sequentially enable each player console so that the enabled player console may send wagering information to said computer; and said computer being capable of simultaneously sending signals to dis-enable the other player consoles so that said dis-enabled player consoles may not send any wagering information to said computer while said enabled player console sends wagering information.
 66. A system being capable of allowing the playing of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of player consoles; said player consoles being distributed at such poker table in a manner to accommodate the players; and each player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each player console display means; said computer being capable of sequentially enabling each player console so that the enabled player console may send wagering information to said computer while said player console is enabled; and said computer being capable of simultaneously dis-enabling the other player consoles so that the other player consoles may not send wagering information to said computer while said player console is enabled.
 67. A system being capable of allowing the playing of at least one betting round of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of player consoles; said player consoles being distributed at such poker table in a manner to accommodate the players; and each player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each player console display means; said computer sequentially responding to wagering information being sent by a particular player console during a betting round of the poker hand; and said computer simultaneously not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles during such betting round of the poker hand.
 68. A system being capable of allowing the playing of poker at a plurality of poker tables by a plurality of players at each poker table, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of player consoles being located at each poker table; said player consoles at each poker table being distributed in a manner to accommodate the players at each poker table; and each player console at each poker table comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each player console at each poker table to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on the player console display means located at each poker table; wherein a particular player console at a particular poker table is enabled by said computer to send wagering information relating to a check, fold, call, bet or raise to said computer while said particular player console at such particular poker table is enabled and wherein the other player consoles at such particular poker table are simultaneously dis-enabled by said computer to not send wagering information to said computer while said particular player console is enabled.
 69. A system being capable of allowing the playing of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of modular player consoles each being removably attached to such poker table; said modular player consoles being distributed at such poker table in a manner to accommodate the players; and each modular player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each modular player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each modular player console display means; each modular player console comprising means being capable of allowing each active player remaining in the poker hand to check, fold, call, bet or raise while such active player's modular console is enabled by said computer and while the other modular player consoles are simultaneously dis-enabled by said computer; and said computer sequentially enabling and then dis-enabling each modular player console of the active players remaining in the poker hand.
 70. In the system of claim 69: said computer being capable of computing and storing information relating to the amount of money remaining in the account of each player; said computer being capable of retaining said stored amount if an active player checks or folds; and said computer being capable of deducting the amount of the call, bet or raise from said stored amount if an active player calls, bets or raises, respectively.
 71. In the system of claim 70, said computer being capable of computing and storing information relating to said deducted amounts for computing the cumulative value of the pot.
 72. In the system of claim 70, said computer being capable of deducting the time amount earned by the casino per unit time from the computer stored stack account of each player.
 73. A system being capable of allowing the playing of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of modular player consoles; each modular player console being removably attached to such poker table and being distributed at such poker table to accommodate the players; and each modular player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each modular player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each player console display means; said computer being capable of sending signals to sequentially enable each modular player console so that the enabled modular player console may send wagering information to said computer while said modular player console is enabled; and said computer being capable of simultaneously sending signals to dis-enable the other modular player consoles so that said other modular player consoles may not send wagering information to said computer while said modular player console is enabled.
 74. A system being capable of allowing the playing of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of modular player consoles; each modular player console being removably attached to such poker table and being distributed at such poker table to accommodate the players; and each modular player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; and a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each modular player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated card designations on each modular player console display means; said computer being capable of sequentially enabling each modular player console so that the enabled modular player console may send wagering information to said computer while the modular player console is enabled; and said computer being capable of simultaneously dis-enabling the other modular player consoles so that said other modular player consoles may not send wagering information to said computer while said modular player console is enabled.
 75. A system being capable of allowing the playing of up to four betting rounds of a poker hand at a poker table by a plurality of players, said system comprising: a computer; a plurality of player consoles; said player consoles being distributed at the poker table in a manner to accommodate the players; and each player console comprising display means being capable of responding to said computer; a plurality of first transmitting means being capable of allowing said computer and each player console to send signals to each other and to receive signals from each other; said computer comprising random card generating means being capable of effecting display of randomly generated unique hole-card images and common card images on each player console display means; wherein before the first betting round of the poker hand said computer random card generating means is capable of effecting display of unique hole-card images on each player console display means; wherein during the first betting round said computer is capable of sequentially responding to wagering information being sent by each player console and simultaneously being capable of not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles; wherein after the first betting round and before the second betting round, if played, said computer random card generating means is capable of effecting display of common card images on each player console display means; wherein during the second betting round said computer is capable of sequentially responding to wagering information being sent by each player console and simultaneously being capable of not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles; wherein after the second betting round, if played, and before the third betting round, if played, said computer random card generating means is capable of capable of effecting display of one more common card image on each player console display means; wherein during the third betting round, if played, said computer is capable of sequentially responding to wagering information being sent by each player console and simultaneously being capable of not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles; wherein after the third betting round, if played, and before the fourth betting round, if played, said computer random card generating means is capable of effecting display of one more common card image on each player console display means; and wherein during the fourth betting round, if played, said computer is capable of sequentially responding to wagering information being sent by each player console and simultaneously being capable of not responding to wagering information being sent by the other player consoles.
 76. A method for allowing the playing of a poker hand including up to four betting rounds at a poker table by a plurality of players, said method comprising the steps of: Electronically designating in clockwise order when viewing the poker table from above, the player who is the button, the player who is the little blind, and the player who is the big blind; Electronically debiting the stored account of the little blind player with the amount of the little blind and crediting the pot with such little blind amount; Electronically debiting the stored account of the big blind player with the amount of the big blind and crediting the pot with such big blind amount; Electronically displaying to each player random electronically generated unique hole-cards on first display means being exclusively visible to each respective player, said first display means being attached to such poker table; Allowing each player after the big blind player and before the little blind player in clockwise order to electronically call, raise or fold as the case may be while simultaneously electronically blocking the other players from betting during the first betting round of the poker hand; Allowing the little blind player and the big blind player to electronically call, raise or fold as the case may be in clockwise sequence while simultaneously electronically blocking the other players from betting during the first betting round of the poker hand; Electronically debiting the stored account of each player with the amount of his call or raise as the case may be and electronically crediting the pot with each such call or raise amount; Electronically displaying to all players random electronically generated common cards on said first display means and on second display means, said second display means being visible to the players and being attached to such poker table; Allowing each player starting with the player after the button player and up to the button player to electronically check, bet, call, raise or fold as the case may be in clockwise sequence while simultaneously electronically blocking the other players from betting during the second betting round, if played, of the poker hand; Electronically debiting the stored account of each player with the amount of his bet, call or raise as the case may be and electronically crediting the pot with each such bet, call or raise amount; Electronically displaying to all players a one more random electronically generated common card on said first display means and on said second display means; Allowing each player starting with the player after the button player and up to the button player to electronically check, bet, call, raise or fold as the case may be in clockwise sequence while simultaneously electronically blocking the other players from betting during the third betting round, if played, of the poker hand; Electronically debiting the stored account of each player with the amount of his bet, call or raise as the case may be and electronically crediting the pot with each such bet, call or raise amount; Electronically displaying to all players one more common random electronically generated common card on said first display means and on said second display means; Allowing each player starting with the player after the button player and up to the button player to electronically check, bet, call, raise or fold as the case may be in clockwise sequence while simultaneously electronically blocking the other players from betting during the fourth betting round, if played, of the poker hand; Electronically debiting the stored account of each player with the amount of his bet, call or raise as the case may be and electronically crediting the pot with each such bet, call or raise amount; Electronically determining the winning player with the best poker hand made up of the unique hole-cards and the common cards; Electronically designating the winning player of the poker hand and the winning poker hand on said first display means and on said second display means; and Electronically crediting the stored account of the winning player with the net amount of the pot at the end of the poker hand. 